Exclusive: Neither Coutinho nor Thiago Silva, real Juve January transfer target revealed

Jordan Russell (@JordRuss96)
16 nov 2017

As always, Juventus’ policy on the transfer market this winter is very clear. There will be no gambling or fantasy football, but instead a safety-first approach where there is margin for growth on young players. Abroad, reports have surfaced suggesting the Bianconeri will compete with Barcelona for the €130 million signing of Philippe Coutinho – this could not be further from the truth.

The same can be said for Paris Saint-Germain defender Thiago Silva, who still has a very high price tag despite being 33 years old. If he were a more cost-effective opportunity, then it would be a different story.

It remains Beppe Marotta’s priority to strengthen the squad with exciting youngsters. Atalanta midfielder Bryan Cristante is appreciated by the Turin giants, while Juve representatives have been keeping a close eye on Nicolò Barella’s development at Cagliari. The 20-year-old has many suitors – both in Italy and abroad – while Tommaso Giulini intends to keep him for another year.

Juve are in position to snap up the Sardinian talent, and are content to work on a deal to sign him while they await other opportunities if and when any big names become available.